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In a recent interview, former member of the Investments and Securities Tribunal, Mr. Osemwengie Smart, shed light on the crucial role the tribunal plays in instilling confidence among domestic and international investors in the Nigerian economy. He discussed the tribunal’s inception, accomplishments, challenges, and its future trajectory.

When asked about the rationale behind establishing the Investments and Securities Tribunal (IST) amidst existing court systems, Mr. Smart explained, “The capital market operates on a tight schedule. Regular courts often lead to prolonged delays, rendering the relevance of disputes moot by the time they are resolved. The government recognized the need for a specialized court to fast-track capital market cases, which led to the formation of the Defeat Committee. This committee recommended creating the IST, a tribunal specially designed to resolve disputes within a strict three-month timeframe, in stark contrast to conventional courts where cases can drag on for years.”

Reflecting on his time on the tribunal, Mr. Smart was asked if there were any complex cases that necessitated extending the three-month limit. He replied, “Not at all. Throughout my tenure, we consistently adhered to that three-month timeline. To my knowledge, none of my colleagues have exceeded this deadline either.”

The conversation then turned to the procedures followed if a case could not be resolved amicably within the designated period. Mr. Smart elaborated, “We strongly encourage settlements and often seek to resolve issues without lengthy litigation. If both parties express interest in finding common ground, we can grant an additional month or two for them to negotiate. If they succeed in reaching an agreement, we accept their terms as the court’s judgment. However, if they can’t settle, we proceed with the case.”

Regarding the proportion of disputes resolved out of court compared to those that enter full litigation, he noted, “Fewer cases end up settling out of court compared to those that go to litigation. This can sometimes be attributed to the practices of some lawyers, who may prefer the courtroom in order to justify their fees, believing that a settlement might diminish their efforts. Nevertheless, we do have an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) center available for simpler disputes or those involving smaller amounts.”

On evaluating the effectiveness of the IST in resolving investment disputes, Mr. Smart asserted, “The IST has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness. It handles both appellate and original cases, with a prerequisite that investors must first attempt to resolve disputes with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Should they be dissatisfied with the SEC’s outcome, they can appeal to the tribunal. Moreover, if there are delays from the SEC, investors can escalate the situation to the IST without being held up indefinitely.”

He emphasized the tribunal’s positive influence on investor confidence: “The settlements we facilitate enhance investor trust. Foreign investors observe that the SEC is actively engaging with cryptocurrency exchanges, which signals a reliable mechanism for resolving disputes. This confidence has bolstered Nigeria’s standing as a signatory to the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO), further elevating investor trust.”

The discussion then shifted to the IST’s accessibility and engagement with investors. Mr. Smart remarked, “The IST is well-utilized, with offices not only in Abuja and Lagos but also in Kano, Enugu, and Port Harcourt. We cater specifically to capital market investors who know where to seek resolution for their disputes, as confirmed by a recent Supreme Court ruling. The court established that the IST holds exclusive jurisdiction over capital market disputes.”

Addressing concerns about the tribunal potentially being overwhelmed, he reassured, “The court is not overloaded. The laws have been significantly refined since their introduction in 1999. Now, any claims involving capital market operators must first be directed to the SEC, which helps prevent minor cases from congesting the system.”

While acknowledging some challenges in enforcement, Mr. Smart stated, “Enforcement can present challenges, as our judgments must be registered with the Federal High Court for execution. However, most cases comply without necessitating further action. There is an opportunity for the government to strengthen this process by allocating resources to develop an enforcement unit, which would be advantageous.”

Can you share your experience on a unique travel trip with Traveleyes, which connects visually impaired travelers with sighted guides? What was it like to explore the stunning landscapes of Austria and Germany?

While I was swimming in a cool, clear lake surrounded by majestic mountains and an approaching Alpine storm, I realized that I was missing out on the visual splendor of the moment. Fortunately, my travel companion, Sophia, vividly described the scenery, enabling me to experience it in a way that resonated deeply with me.

What inspired you to join a Traveleyes trip?

Having been visually impaired my whole life, I was eager to engage in this travel model. I love to travel, but navigating unfamiliar places often requires assistance. I was hesitant to join a conventional group holiday because I feared feeling out of place or being a burden to others.

What were your initial feelings about traveling with a group of strangers?

I was definitely apprehensive about traveling abroad with new people at first. However, our tour manager, Liz, greeted us warmly, which quickly put me at ease. Before long, I found myself enjoying comfortable conversations with my guides and fellow visually impaired travelers over a cappuccino, which really helped me relax.

Can you describe the group dynamics on your trip?

Our group consisted of 10 visually impaired travelers along with 11 sighted guides, plus our local guide, Dorothea. We stayed at a beautiful hotel in the Tirol region of Austria, with planned itineraries that made everything smoother. I enjoyed swimming in the hotel’s infinity pool and sharing meals, where we bonded over local dishes like spinach dumplings and rich cheeses, exchanging stories that strengthened our connections.

What advantages did you find in being paired with sighted guides during your excursions?

Being paired with sighted guides offered significant benefits for visually impaired travelers like myself, providing crucial support. Interestingly, many sighted guides are attracted to this travel model because it allows them to join in the adventure while also experiencing the joys of guiding rather than caregiving, making it a fulfilling experience for everyone involved.

How did you feel about the daily changes in your guides?

Each day introduced us to a new guide, fostering connections within the group. For instance, while exploring Innsbruck, my guide Jackson offered detailed descriptions of our surroundings. Even though I could perceive some parts of the environment, his descriptions enriched my understanding of what I could hear and feel, deepening my overall experience.

What memorable sensory experiences did you encounter during the trip?

The trip was definitely active, requiring a commitment of energy. I was captivated by the lush scent of pine trees while hiking and the delightful smell of flowers we encountered along the way. A particularly memorable moment occurred on the cogwheel train ride to Lake Achen, where we paused to listen to a choir rehearsing, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that I’ll always cherish.

What insights did you gain from this experience in the world?

This trip encouraged me to embrace my visual impairment rather than hide it. It felt natural to ask someone to describe a view or read a menu for me. Beyond the breathtaking locations, I valued the deep conversations and laughter shared with my travel companions, which fostered a strong sense of belonging. Looking back on the experience, I left with a renewed desire to explore even more of the world.

What are the costs associated with a trip like this?

Traveleyes offers trips starting at £745 for visually impaired individuals and £545 for sighted guides, making adventures accessible to people with varying needs.

In a recent interview, photojournalist Melanie Friend reflected on her extraordinary trip to China in 1986, a time when the country was just beginning to open its doors to the world. At just 28 years old, she dedicated seven months to preparing for the journey, taking night classes in Mandarin. Despite her efforts, she confessed that nothing could truly prepare her for the vibrant interactions she experienced during her month-long solo adventure.

“In the cities, people were somewhat accustomed to seeing Western students, but in the rural areas, it was quite different,” Friend shared. “I was met with a lot of curiosity and an overwhelming sense of friendliness from the locals.”

The timing of her visit was perfect, aligning with a growing interest in emerging China. As a freelancer, Friend had secured commitments from several publications, including The Economist and The Times, eager to share her insights. This support allowed her to delve deeper into her explorations. “Early on in my trip, I found myself alone in a hotel room feeling quite hopeless. So I decided to take a bike and venture into the back streets. That’s when I really began to connect with people in spontaneous and meaningful ways,” she reflected.

These newfound encounters are vividly captured in her recently released short book, which celebrates the serendipity of her travels. Friend’s photography showcases a dynamic mix of first-ever advertising billboards clashing with government slogans, bicycles dominating the newly built highways, and snapshots of daily life—such as elderly men engrossed in games of Xiangqi and children captivated by comic books. A particularly memorable moment occurred in a Shanghai restaurant, where she observed a couple celebrating their wedding at a nearby table. “I noticed this joyful gathering and introduced myself, despite my limited language skills. They seemed genuinely happy at the idea of a photograph,” she recalled. “Every time I look at that image, I’m flooded with warm memories of all those beautiful interactions.”

Friend’s work, China, 1986, published by Cafe Royal Books, invites readers to experience the warmth and spontaneity of her journey through her captivating lens.

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing representatives from the Central Academy of Fine Arts about the thrilling “YANG美·固安” exhibition, which highlights their cultural and educational collaboration with Gu’an’s non-material cultural heritage. The exhibition, which has recently opened in Gu’an, has been garnering significant attention from visitors.

The organizers shared that faculty and students from the academy devoted three months to exploring traditional crafts in Gu’an, including egg carving, willow weaving, embroidery, and Zhang’s gourd art. Their goal was to both uncover and innovate upon the area’s rich traditional culture. By blending heritage preservation with creative innovation, the exhibition features a diverse array of artworks, transforming Gu’an into a vibrant artistic “new landscape.” This gives audiences a fresh perspective that showcases the dynamism and charm of non-material culture while also celebrating contemporary artistic expression.

I discovered that the exhibition employs experimental art to manifest its visions, seeking new opportunities within the current artistic landscape. It actively encourages students and faculty to collectively delve into this “materialization” as a form of experimental accumulation, opening up avenues for public and social engagement in art and revitalizing social aesthetics in the process.

Wang Xiaolin, the Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee at the Central Academy of Fine Arts, elaborated on their strategic development plan aimed at integrating art with modern industrial systems. She noted that the exhibition exemplifies this approach. “Gu’an is rich in non-material cultural heritage, and it represents a significant asset for cultural diversity. Our faculty and students have engaged deeply with local heritage projects, such as Beijing embroidery and willow weaving, learning from folk artists and producing 23 innovative experimental works that illustrate the creative transformation and development of traditional culture,” she explained.

The “YANG美·固安” exhibition signifies a profound integration of education and culture, facilitating meaningful exchanges and collaborations with local communities. Through artistic creation, academic research, public art displays, and unique cultural performances, the exhibition merges tradition with modernity. Luo Meng, Chairman of Beijing Caishi Cultural Group, emphasized that the initiative fully showcases the cultural wealth of Gu’an while exploring the intersection of unique cultural heritage and contemporary art, thus fostering growth in the cultural industry. Professor Zhang Guolong from the Academy highlighted that the “materialization” in experimental art encourages the discovery of new possibilities, infusing fresh energy into social aesthetics.

Co-hosted by the Gu’an Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism, alongside the School of Experimental Art and Technology at the Central Academy of Fine Arts, the exhibition is just one facet of what’s happening in the area. The inaugural “Charming Jingnan: Artistic Gu’an” Cultural and Arts Festival will include a series of performances and workshops, such as lacquer fan-making, printmaking, and pottery experiences. This vibrant cultural arts initiative is set to engage the local community and will continue through October 7.

This season has been predominantly characterized by strong defensive performances, yet there’s a glimmer of hope for quarterbacks throughout the league. In a surprising turn, famed analyst Mel Kiper even proposed a ban on two-high safeties, reflecting the growing frustration over the offenses’ struggles. Fortunately, it appears that patience may have paid off as offenses began to hit their stride in Week 5.

The dreary theme of a defensive-heavy season gave way to an electrifying display of wide receivers maneuvering through defenses. Fans were treated to some breathtaking moments, including Ja’marr Chase’s stunning 70-yard catch-and-run and a thrilling overtime touchdown by Kirk Cousins. A particularly notable showdown unfolded between Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson.

One of the highlights of the weekend was CJ Stroud’s jaw-dropping 67-yard touchdown pass to Nico Collins, which demonstrated an impeccable connection. Stroud launched the ball a remarkable 59 yards directly into Collins’ arms, playing a crucial role in the Texans’ significant victory over the Buffalo Bills, despite Collins sustaining a hamstring injury during the play. Fortunately for Houston, they are set to face the struggling New England Patriots next, a matchup that could help them weather the injury storm and potentially improve to a 5-1 record.

On the defensive side, the Denver Broncos have been turning heads with their recent performances. Under the leadership of Vance Joseph, the team celebrated their third consecutive win, proving their ability to control games from the outset. Their tenacious defense held both the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New York Jets to minimal scoring, with standout moments like Patrick Surtain II’s 100-yard pick-six igniting their offense during the game against the Raiders.

Despite having only Surtain as their first-round pick, Joseph is effectively maximizing his defensive unit’s potential with an emphasis on tight coverage and aggressive blitzing. The Broncos’ defense has emerged as one of the league’s best, currently boasting the top expected points added (EPA) per pass at -0.3 and limiting opponents to just 135 passing yards on average per game. They are on track for their first winning season since 2016.

In contrast, the Cleveland Browns continue to struggle under Deshaun Watson, leading to a disappointing 1-4 record. Once heralded as a potential game-changer following a massive $270 million deal, Watson has faltered, and both coaches and fans are increasingly frustrated with his inability to steer the offense, evident in a series of penalties and missed opportunities during crucial games.

The New York Jets face a similar dilemma after trading for Aaron Rodgers, viewing him as a solution to their offensive struggles. However, following a disappointing performance against the undefeated Minnesota Vikings, which ultimately resulted in head coach Robert Saleh’s dismissal, it’s clear that Rodgers is having a tough time. His struggle to respond under pressure, coupled with a stagnant running game, casts a shadow over the team’s future. With just 4.5 yards per play in his last game, the Jets find themselves at a critical juncture, particularly due to their offensive coordinator’s lack of innovative play-calling.

As the Jets strive to avoid a sixth straight losing season, the addition of a dynamic receiver like Davante Adams might just provide the necessary spark for Rodgers and help the team regroup. Only time will tell if they can discover the missing piece to turn their season around.

In December 2019, during Apple’s only open day for the public at their headquarters, former Cupertino Mayor Gilbert Wong took a rare tour of the facility. In an exclusive interview, he shared insights from his experience negotiating contracts with Apple while he served as mayor. Wong recalled a clandestine meeting where he was shown the highly confidential blueprint of Apple’s headquarters, led by none other than Steve Jobs himself, as they engaged in intense discussions with Apple’s celebrated CFO, Luca Maestri.

Wong’s journey with Cupertino began in 2002 when he joined the city planning commission. He later transitioned to the city council, serving from 2007 to 2016, and held the mayoral position in 2011 and 2013. Notably, during his tenure as mayor, he played a crucial role in approving Apple’s decision to establish its headquarters in Cupertino, which required negotiating successfully between the city staff and Apple.

In 2010, while serving as Cupertino’s vice mayor, Wong received an unexpected phone call from Apple inviting him to a meeting. He anticipated a casual visit, but it turned into a significant encounter with Steve Jobs. Despite his battle with pancreatic cancer at the time, Jobs engaged Wong in a discussion about acupuncture and its health benefits.

As the conversation shifted to Apple’s plans for its new headquarters, Wong vividly remembers Jobs saying, “Gilbert, I want to invite you into this room to see our next project. Can we step into this dark room?” Jobs then retrieved a key and opened an inconspicuous door, which revealed a breathtaking sight: a large model of what would become the future Apple campus.

Wong described the model as “a complete representation of the Apple headquarters, featuring tables, people, trees, cars, and even a four-story cafeteria.” Witnessing this model of an architectural marvel left Wong deeply moved, as he and Jobs discussed various technical aspects, including the building’s height and design setbacks.

Negotiating with Apple wasn’t without challenges, as Wong candidly admitted. In 2013, Maestri reached out directly, stating, “I need to talk to you; the city council needs to approve the Apple headquarters plan.” At the time, Wong was preparing to take his family on a hike and prioritized family time over business. “Can you call me back later?” he asked.

Later that afternoon, they spoke again, and Maestri highlighted the urgency of moving forward with Apple’s project. Wong insisted that the residents of Cupertino required the expansion of the nearby Wolf Road overpass from four lanes to six, with Apple bearing part of the costs. “If you can let Tim Cook know, I’d like to see a six-lane interchange; residents need more lanes to cross I-280 and access Wolf Road,” he explained.

The negotiation process required some back and forth because Apple was initially hesitant about the extra expenditures. However, by October 2013, an agreement was reached on the Wolf Road expansion project, with Apple agreeing to fund the initiative. Construction is expected to commence between 2024 and 2025, once sufficient funds have been secured.

Wong also pointed out that recent audits from the California Tax Board regarding Apple’s online sales tax would not impact this project, as those tax issues were unrelated.

Reflecting on his negotiation experiences with Apple, Wong emphasized the importance of his role as a council member and mayor in facilitating development in Cupertino. He revealed that during the negotiations, he faced threats from others, especially during his second term as mayor. “It was a challenging moment, but I wasn’t afraid,” he said with confidence.

Wong still treasures the visitor badge from Apple’s open day in 2019, which serves as a reminder of a pivotal moment in Cupertino’s history.

As construction of skyscrapers in the Two Bridges area of Manhattan’s Lower East Side comes to a halt due to partner withdrawal, fresh news emerges from Chinatown: a new recreation center called “Blue Sea” may soon rise at 100 Division Street. This project promises to enhance Chinatown’s amenities, yet it also raises concerns as gentrification threatens to reshape the community. Given that gentrification has become an unavoidable trend in global cities, how should the Chinese community respond?

The recreation center is indeed set to provide much-needed entertainment space and could positively impact local tourism. However, the rise in property values and rents associated with such developments has put significant pressure on many residents. In recent years, several longstanding businesses in Chinatown—such as Phoenix Bakery, Ding Yau Hong Gift Shop, and New City Organic Tea—have been forced to close their doors due to skyrocketing rent, losing their homes after decades of operation. This trend may worsen with the ongoing wave of development.

Chinatown’s rich culture and food scene attract visitors eager to savor affordable local bites and appreciate traditional murals, like the iconic Zodiac mural located at the proposed site for “Blue Sea.” Yet, as gentrification accelerates, these culturally vibrant elements could disappear, making way for upscale restaurants that replace cherished local eateries serving roasted meats, rice rolls, and potstickers.

While the trend of gentrification is difficult to reverse, the community should not merely oppose it passively but actively engage in public dialogue to ensure their needs and concerns are heard and addressed. Although the “Blue Sea” project has pledged to preserve the dragon mural in front of the center—a positive step—the community can advocate for more comprehensive cultural preservation measures. For example, in Kyoto, Japan, the local government has implemented strict policies to protect numerous historical buildings and sites during gentrification. Chinatown could learn from this approach to achieve a balance between economic development and cultural preservation. Ultimately, the community’s future should be determined by the members who live there.

On September 21, the Silicon Valley Chinese American Computer Association (SVCACA) hosted an engaging conference titled “AI: The Present and Future” in Silicon Valley. The event attracted a diverse group of experts and industry leaders from the realms of artificial intelligence, technology, and innovation. Dedicated to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration within the Chinese American community, SVCACA set out to delve into the latest developments in AI and its future potential.

In her opening remarks, SVCACA President Sheena Chang emphasized the significance of the conference, stating, “We stand at a crossroads today; artificial intelligence is no longer a concept of the future but a driving force shaping our present lives. This conference aims not only to understand the current state of AI but also to reflect on its future implications.” She highlighted that the event would serve as a platform for in-depth discussions, groundbreaking ideas, and industry collaboration to propel technological advancement.

The conference featured prominent figures in AI who engaged in discussions about practical applications, ethical considerations, and the societal transformations that AI might bring. Attendees had the chance to gain valuable insights from experts and enhance their understanding of AI technologies through networking opportunities. Exciting conversations centered around the significant changes AI is introducing across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, online services, public transportation, security, and entertainment.

A standout moment at the conference was the keynote presentation by Teddy Lee, an executive from the highly regarded OpenAI. Additionally, several venture capital executives took part in discussions about future trends in AI and the companies they are monitoring closely. The venue was alive with energy as various AI startups showcased their innovative products, capturing the attention and curiosity of attendees.

On October 9, 2023, the Xinjiang Airport Group made an exciting announcement about their achievements during the recent National Day holiday. Can you tell us about the milestone the group reached between October 1 and 7, 2024?

Absolutely! During that week, the group surpassed an impressive 1 million passengers for the first time, recording a total of 1.068 million travelers.

That’s quite the accomplishment! How did cargo and flight operations perform during this holiday period?

The numbers were robust across the board. We reported a cargo and mail volume of 5,613 tons and managed a total of 8,518 flight takeoffs and landings. Specifically, Urumqi International Airport played a significant role, handling over 600,000 passengers for the first time—605,000 to be exact—which marks a 2.6% increase from the previous year.

Incredible! What was the peak travel day like, and what types of travel were most prevalent?

The peak travel day was October 1, where we transported an incredible 165,000 passengers in just one day. The majority of travelers were either tourists or visiting family, with outbound travelers surpassing those arriving. Within Xinjiang, popular destinations included Kashgar, Korla, Yining, and Aksu.

Were there any particular airports that saw significant increases in passenger numbers during this period?

Yes, indeed! A total of 20 airports, including Urumqi, Turpan, Kashgar, Korla, Tumxuk, Kuqa, Yining, Altay, Tacheng, and Hami, reported passenger throughput that exceeded last year’s figures. Kashgar Laining International Airport also celebrated a remarkable milestone, reaching over 100,000 passengers during the holiday with a total of 116,000, which represents a staggering 34.9% growth year-on-year.

What measures has the Xinjiang Airport Group taken to improve the travel experience for passengers?

To enhance convenience, we have intensified flight schedules from regional airports to Urumqi and introduced direct routes to major cities like Guangzhou, Beijing, and Xi’an. Additionally, we’ve upgraded several services, including overnight connections and faster security procedures, to better cater to our passengers’ needs.

Recent reports from Israeli Channel 12 reveal that the United States has been quietly engaging in negotiations with Iran regarding a potential ceasefire in the Middle East, with the help of several Arab nations. While Israel is not directly involved in these discussions, it is fully aware of them.

Senior Israeli officials have indicated that any prospective ceasefire would depend on specific conditions put forth by Israel. These conditions include the withdrawal of Hezbollah from Lebanon and the dismantling of all military bases associated with the group.

Despite these negotiations, the reports raise questions about whether they will have any effect on Israel’s current military operations in Gaza.